Blueberry Hill Rhythm

Today we’re learning rhythm 3, better known as 12/8 TIME or TRIPLE FEEL.

Triple Feel refers to the three-noted groups the basic rhythm comes in. Four of these groups (3 beats) are present in 12/8 Time per bar. This means that the RIGHT hand plays 12 ‘ beats’ for each bar. Try it with a C chord now.

A three-note pattern is played by the right hand. Similar to the Twist rhythm, the three notes on the left hand “match” the right hand chord’s three notes.

At first practice it slowly. Carefully note where left hand notes occur. (x)

Transpose the pattern to chords F and G (below mid C) and voila, you have Blueberry Hill’s three main chords.

Now let’s look at Rhythm Number 4: the 12/8 Boogie Shuffle

PART 1

Think back to the above rhythm, Blueberry Hill. Note that you counted 12 beats in each bar. Here, count the Triple Feel rhythm (four groups of three beats); on the 1st and 3rd beats only, tap out a rhythm (exclude the second beat)

Notice the Shuffles?

With your left hand, find the “2-note: chord shapes.

Now try the rhythm with the two chord shapes.

PART 2

Transpose the chords to F and G. After, play the 12 bar blues that follow.

The right hand HOLDS and plays the relevant C, F, or G chord on the first beat of every bar.

Here are a few songs to practice the 12/8 Boogie Shuffle.

BLUES BROTHERS

Let’s look at our fifth rhythm: Blues Brothers

This is a fun rhythm. This rhythm is used in the “I’m A Believer” chorus by The Monkees. Try to work out the theme tunes of The Odd Couple and Sesame Street. Have a blast!

Play every right hand chord twice. Repeat.

Repeat.

Bring the base note on the left hand in slightly before the right hand chord.